Yapahuwa fortress in Sri Lanka

Yapahuwa fortress: The Short-Lived Capital Guarding Sri Lanka’s Sacred Tooth Relic

Rising dramatically from the plains of Sri Lanka’s North Western Province, the ancient yapahuwa rock, Yapahuwa fortress of Yapahuwa offers a captivating glimpse into a brief but crucial chapter of the island’s history. While less visited than Sigiriya or Polonnaruwa, Yapahuwa’s yapahuwa staircase is intimately tied to the most sacred object in the land: the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha.

A Kingdom in Chaos and a King’s Last Stand

Following the golden age of Polonnaruwa and the death of King Prakramabahu II, Sri Lanka entered a period of political fragmentation and foreign invasion. In 1272, amidst this turmoil, King Bhuvanekabahu I seized power. Facing threats from the yapahuwa rock south and from powerful foreign forces, he made a yapahuwa staircase strategic decision: to abandon the great city of Polonnaruwa and move his capital to the already fortified rock of Yapahuwa. Most importantly, he took the Sacred Tooth Relic with him.

The Symbol of Legitimate Rule

In medieval Sri Lanka, possession of the Tooth Relic was not merely a religious matter; it was the ultimate symbol of legitimate sovereignty. A king without the relic was considered a mere regional lord. By safeguarding the relic within his fortress, Bhuvanekabahu I was making a powerful statement to his rivals and his people: he was the true and rightful ruler of Sri Lanka, chosen by the gods to protect its most sacred treasure.

The Grand Stairway to a Lost Palace

Today, the most striking feature of Yapahuwa fortress is its magnificent and ornate brick-and-stone stairway. This steep staircase, a masterpiece of 13th-century architecture, was the grand entrance to the royal palace complex at the summit.

• Architectural Marvel: The stairs are flanked by beautifully carved makara (mythical dragon) balustrades and intricate stone carvings, including musicians, dancers, and animals, showing a high degree of artistic skill.

• The Lion Terrace: At the top of the first flight sits a powerful and beautifully preserved stone lion statue, whose style is distinct from other Sinhalese sculptures and hints at foreign influences.

• The Summit: Climbing the stairs rewards you with a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside—a clear demonstration of the site’s strategic defensive value. The ruins of the Temple of the Tooth, the royal palace, and fortifications can still be explored at the top.

A Short-Lived Capital

Despite its formidable defenses and the presence of the Relic, Yapahuwa’s time as the capital was brief. After the death of Bhuvanekabahu, the fortress was invaded and captured by the Pandyan dynasty from South India, and the Sacred Tooth Relic was seized and taken to India (though it was later returned). The capital was moved again, and Yapahuwa was eventually abandoned to the jungle, later being used as a Buddhist monastery.

Why Visit Yapahuwa with Rainbow Tours?

Yapahuwa is a site for true history enthusiasts. It offers:

• An Uncrowded Experience: Escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful, atmospheric exploration.

• A Unique Architectural Gem: The grand stairway is unlike anything else in Sri Lanka.

• A Deep Historical Narrative: Understand the pivotal role of the Tooth Relic in Sri Lankan politics and royalty.

Let Rainbow Tours Bring This History to Life
We include Yapahuwa in tailored cultural itineraries for travelers who want to go beyond the well-trodden path. Our expert guides will unravel the dramatic story of King Bhuvanekabahu and the sacred relic he fought to protect.

Contact us to include this hidden historical gem in your Sri Lankan adventure!

Read more details on government website: Yapahuwa